Qatar Foundation Annual Research Forum Volume 2011 Issue 1

Abstract Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) Engines hold promises of being the next generation of internal combustion engines due to their ability to produce high thermal efficiencies, in addition to low nitric oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). HCCI combustion is achieved through the auto-ignition of a compressed homogeneous fuel-air mixture, thus making it a “fusion” between spark-ignition and compres Read More

Abstract Qatar is one of the largest producers of polymers in the Middle East, with a total annual turnover of $3.5 billion. The annual consumption of industrial and domestic polymers in the region generates significant amount of plastic waste in Qatar and in Gulf Corporation Countries (GCC). Recently, recycling of plastics has become an optimum waste management solution due to the efficiency of incorporating the plastic wa Read More

Abstract Qatar has experienced great change in its infrastructure, continuous upgrading of its major industrial cities, of its network of roads and highways and major construction and development along its coastline in particular the eastern coastline. These activities can all have an impact on the marine life and terrestrial wildlife, vegetation and floristic composition. One strip of coastline on the north-eastern section of Qatar r Read More

Abstract Nanotechnology is regarded as the next great scientific/industrial revolution due to the possibility of designing nanostructured materials that possess novel electronic, optical, magnetic, and catalytic properties. Nanomaterials could potentially be applied in pollution control, catalysis, water remediation, clean energy. Nanocatalysis is a phenomenon of significant research and important practical applications in a variety Read More

Abstract Barchan dunes in Qatar are restricted to the southeastern region of the country. They are currently a disappearing natural habitat due to the northwesterly Al Shamal winds, which are scouring the landscape and spreading desertification, as they pass. This research aims to understand whether the synergy between the physical transport of dust, moisture retention and microbial growth beneath the dune surface, could b Read More

Abstract The debate around carbon emission reduction seems to be hinging on capture and storage despite limited information about suitable sites and associated risks. It is unfortunate that alternatives to underground storage have not been discussed and disseminated for public opinion. This presentation aims at demystifying the broader picture on carbon management and the associated issues. Given the current lack of prog Read More

Abstract Clean air is an essential requirement to protect human health and the ecosystem. Achieving acceptable air quality requires the monitoring of ambient air quality, the setting of standards by the Ministry of Environment (MoE), and the implementation of control technologies. Air quality is a national priority for Qatar. The Qatar Energy and Environment Research Institute (QEERI) and TOTAL Research Center-Qatar, with their Read More

Abstract A limestone-plateau of 11,400 sq. km, Qatar continues to import approximately 90% of its food. By establishing a position of foreign dependence, Qatar's food security is at risk due to fluctuating prices (as experienced in 2008) and potential disruptions in supply. The total arable land in the GCC is in the order of 1.7%, resulting in an industry that only accounts for 1–4% of total revenue (0.1% in Qatar). As such, Qa Read More

Abstract Compared with conventional diesel refining process, GTL diesel offers significant environmental advantages such as less carbon emissions and improvement of air quality. However, the GTL technology often requires intensive energy and resources input. This paper applies Life cycle assessment (LCA) method to quantify the environmental impacts of gas-to-liquid fuel processes. LCA is a tool for the analysis of environ Read More

Abstract Amidoximes are an important class of organic compounds featuring a fused amide and oxime functionality and their use as starting materials for the synthesis of valuable heterocyclics and related intermediates enabled wide applications in novel pharmaceuticals, antitumor agents, antimalarial agents, nitric oxide synthase (NOS) substrates, enhanced textile materials, synthetic polymers, and chelating resins. Read More